Expanded Learning Programs » Saturday Academies (Science, Music, Folklorico, Attendance Recovery)

Saturday Academies (Science, Music, Folklorico, Attendance Recovery)

NASA

In partnership with the Hartnell College Foundation and funded by NASA since 2014, our Saturday STEM Academy provides a transformative experience for over 1,200 K-6 students in East Salinas each year.
 
This five-week, hands-on academy engages young minds with the wonders of science, technology, engineering, and math, inspiring the next generation of innovators. The program culminates with a special Family Resource Day, where students become the teachers! Families join their children for a community resource fair and a role-reversal class, experiencing a NASA-themed mission designed and led by the students.
 
 
AUSD is offering five Saturday NASA sessions per site.
  • Time: 8:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
  • What you need to know: You can attend one, two, three, four, or all five sessions at your home school.
  • Breakfast and Lunch are provided.
  • More details: Click here to view the flyer and register.
 
  •  Steinbeck, Creekside, VRB, Monte Bella, Bardin, and Alisal will host their NASA Saturday program on  
    • January 24th, 2026- Registration now closed.
    • January 31st, 2026- Registration now closed.
    • February 7th, 2026
    • February 14th, 2026
    • February 21st, 2026
  • Frank Paul, Cesar Chavez, Loya, MLK, Sanchez, and Fremont will host their NASA Saturday program on 
    • April 11th, 2026
    • April 18th, 2026
    • April 25th, 2026
    • May 2nd, 2026
    • May 9th, 2026

STEAM

 

The Hartnell College Foundation's K-12 STEAM Program is bringing the future to students across the Salinas Valley. In partnership with NASA and other leading organizations, we are inspiring the next generation of innovators with hands-on, high-quality educational experiences.
 
Our Programs:
  • K-6 Students: Explore the wonders of science and technology in our NASA Saturday Academies.
  • All Ages: Dive into the world of coding and robotics with our Saturday programs.
 
At the K-12 STEAM Program, we don't just teach technology—we build a love for learning. Our curriculum is designed with the unique needs of our community in mind, incorporating social-emotional development to empower every student to succeed. Together, we are creating a clear pathway to higher education at Hartnell College and exciting careers beyond.
 
AUSD is offering five Saturday STEAM sessions per site.
  • Time: 8:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
  • What you need to know: You can attend one, two, three, four, or all five sessions at your home school.
  • Breakfast and Lunch are provided.
  • More details: Click here to view the flyer and register.
 
  • Frank Paul, Cesar Chavez, Loya, MLK, Sanchez, and Fremont will host their STEAM Saturday program on 
    • January 24th, 2026- Registration now closed.
    • January 31st, 2026- Registration now closed.
    • February 7th, 2026
    • February 14th, 2026
    • February 21st, 2026
  •  Steinbeck, Creekside, VRB, Monte Bella, Bardin, and Alisal will host their STEAM Saturday program on  
    • April 11th, 2026
    • April 18th, 2026
    • April 25th, 2026
    • May 2nd, 2026
    • May 9th, 2026
ALLSTAR Music Saturday Programs
 
Inspire Your Child with Music and the Arts!
Our programs are open to all students in grades 1-6 and offer a rich variety of activities, including:
  • Music Basics: A foundation in music is taught in every class.
  • Performance Arts: Students have the option to participate in one of our specialized instruction classes in drumming, marching, marimbas/xylophones, guitar, trumpet, violin, dance, cheer, or colorguard.
 
AUSD is offering ALLSTAR Music Programs at the following sites: 
  • Fremont Elementary- Piano/Marimba and Drumline Classes
  • Frank Paul- Guitar Ensemble Classes
  • MLK- Mariachi Classes (Violin/Guitar/Trumpet/Vocals)
  • Sanchez- Colorguard Classes
  • Monte Bella (Fall/Spring Sports Season only)- Cheer 
  • MLK (Winter Basketball Season)- Cheer
 
  • Time: 8:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
  • What you need to know: These programs are open to students district-wide. Rosters are filled on a first-come come first-served basis. Max capacity per class is 20 students. 
  • Breakfast and Lunch are provided.

 
 
Folklorico Saturday Academy
 
Experience the vibrant culture of Mexico through dance!
Join the new Cultural Folklórico Saturday Dance Academy, a collaboration between the Alisal Union School District and Danzantes del Valle, offered to students in grades 4-6. Students will master fundamental dance techniques while immersing themselves in the rich traditions, music, and legends of Mexico.
 
This is more than just a dance class; it’s a journey into a deep and beautiful cultural heritage.
 
AUSD is offering Folklorico Saturday Academy classes for 4th-6th-grade students:
  • Time: 8:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
  • What you need to know: This program is open to students district-wide. Rosters are filled on a first-come, first-served basis. Max capacity per class is 20 students. 
 
AARC Super Saturday Program!
 
This year the AARC Super Saturday program will run during the Fall term of the 2025-2026 School Year. For students, participation in this attendance recovery program offers significant academic and personal benefits that extend far beyond a changed attendance record. These programs are designed to address the root causes of absenteeism by re-engaging students and providing crutial instructional and social-emotional support. 
 
AUSD is offering four Saturday attendance recovery sessions.
  • Time: 8:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
  • What you need to know: You can attend one, two, three, or all four sessions at your home school.
  • Breakfast and Lunch is provided.
  • More details: Links to flyers with specific dates are below.
 
  •  Steinbeck, Creekside, VRB, Monte Bella, Bardin, and Alisal will host their AARC Super Saturday program on  
    • September 6th, 2025- Registration now closed.
    • September 13th, 2025- Registration now closed.
    • September 20th, 2025- Registration now closed.
    • September 27th, 2025- Registration now closed.
 
  • Frank Paul, Cesar Chavez, Loya, MLK, Sanchez, and Fremont will host their AARC Super Saturday program on 
    • October 25th, 2025- Registration now closed.
    • November 1st, 2025- Registration now closed.
    • November 8th, 2025- Registration now closed.
    • November 15th, 2025- Registration now closed.
Saturday Programs- Photos of our Students in Action

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